Steven Gerrard Praises Barcelona's Lamine Yamal as a Future Rival to Messi and Ronaldo
Former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has expressed his belief that Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal could reach the legendary status of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. The 19-year-old Spain international has made a remarkable impact this season, scoring 13 goals and providing 11 assists in all competitions for the Catalan club.
Gerrard's High Praise for the Young Star
Before witnessing Yamal score in Barcelona's 3-0 Champions League win against Aston Villa at Camp Nou, Gerrard described the young talent as a "freak of a player." He highlighted Yamal's impressive goal and assist numbers, calling them "beyond belief" and "scary." Gerrard also noted that players with such extraordinary talent appear only occasionally, comparing Yamal to icons like Messi and Ronaldo.
"We're talking about a megastar. The numbers he's getting at the moment are scary really. He's still a teenager, which makes it even more impressive. These players come around every so often—Messi, Ronaldo—and I believe he'll be spoken about like them in a decade's time," Gerrard said.
Anthony Gordon’s Progress in Spain
Gerrard also mentioned meeting fellow English winger Anthony Gordon, who recently moved from Newcastle United to Barcelona. Gordon has already contributed two goals and five assists in La Liga. Gerrard praised Gordon’s eagerness to improve and believes that the coaching staff at Barcelona, including Thomas Tuchel, is helping him grow into a world-class player.
"Anthony’s a learner who wants to evolve. The potential’s there, and he’s shown it for club and country. Playing for Barcelona at this stage in his career is ideal," Gerrard explained.
Former England midfielder Joe Cole added that Gordon appears to be enjoying his time at Barcelona and praised his personality and determination.
"He looks like he's having the time of his life. Being grateful is a skill not just in football but in life. Playing for Barcelona and alongside such players is a dream come true for him," Cole commented.
Barcelona's Potent Attack
Alongside Yamal and Gordon, Raphinha has helped make Barcelona’s attack highly effective this season. The team has scored 46 goals in 11 La Liga matches and added 14 in four Champions League games. This striking form will be crucial as they aim to secure trophies domestically and in Europe before the November international break.
- Lamine Yamal: 13 goals, 11 assists (all competitions)
- Anthony Gordon: 2 goals, 5 assists (La Liga)
- Barcelona La Liga Goals: 46 in 11 matches
- Barcelona Champions League Goals: 14 in 4 matches
